Civic Scholars Student Profile Nora Bergman

Why Chicago Booth?
I had toyed with the idea of an MBA for several years, but the opportunity to do it within a program specifically designed to support social sector professionals was the extra push I needed. Chicago Booth and the Civic Scholars Program have given me the opportunity to pursue an MBA surrounded by support, motivation, and inspiration that speaks directly to my professional goals.  

What skills are you looking to develop at Booth?
I am looking to Booth to help me build fluency and comfort across sectors so that I will be well positioned to build cross-disciplinary solutions to complex social problems. There is a lot of untapped potential in for-profit/nonprofit partnerships, and I want to ensure I have the skills I need to fully engage both sides.  

What are your career aspirations?
As America continues to age, and as more and more individuals begin to tap fewer and fewer resources for structural, functional, financial, medical, and social supports, we are going to need better and more sustainable ways to care for people. I am looking to leverage my time at Booth to build the skills, partnerships, and vision required to make systemic and structural improvements in both the social services space and the policy space.  

How will your Booth experience help you grow your career?
I am excited about finding myself in classrooms full of people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences who bring different perspectives, skills, and expertise to thinking about social problems and solutions. I’m eager to engage with peers and be challenged to think beyond my typical frameworks. I am also excited about being in an environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity in developing data-driven solutions.